Sequel to a visit to the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, at the Department of State Services (DSS) facility in Abuja last year, the Igbo Community Association in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja have expressed deep concern over the disturbing silence surrounding what it described as the systemic marginalization of the Igbos and the prevailing crises that has engulfed vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
This was contained in a press statement signed by Engr (Nze) Ikenna Ellis-Ezenekwe, President General, Igbo Community Association in the FCT.
The press statement which was made available to our news desk reads in part, “During our discussion on the plight of the Igbo man and woman within the Nigerian state, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu lamented the apparent void in vocal, uncompromised advocacy. Since his detention, key voices and defenders of the South East have, to a large extent, become quiet. It is deeply troubling that many prominent leaders have chosen to prioritize personal political favor with the administration over speaking out against the injustices and socio-economic marginalization meted out against our people”.
Continuing, the group said, silence in the face of oppression is complicity, adding that, “the South East cannot afford leadership that prioritizes political convenience over the fundamental rights, dignity and security of its citizens”.
According to the group, “the fight against marginalization must not be waged in isolation. Hence, there is an urgent, imperative need for all marginalized groups and impacted regions across Nigeria to bind together and push back against systemic injustices. The premeditated killings, ongoing violence, and persistent land-grabbing targeting communities in the Middle Belt and North West represent a grave national disgrace that must end immediately.
We call on the people of the South East to join forces with the Middle Belt and other affected regions to build a united front.
Together, we must demand an immediate end to senseless killings, unlawful land occupations, and the institutional neglect of minority and marginalized groups.
Nigeria can only progress when justice, equity, and absolute security are guaranteed for every citizen, irrespective of tribal and religious sentiments”
